Common Causes And Tell-Tale Signs Of A Burst Pipe

A burst pipe can do significant damage to your home, particularly if it's not addressed promptly. It can raise the humidity in your home and cause mould and mildew to develop. The surrounding walls, ceiling or flooring may be damaged beyond repair and require replacement, and a long-standing leak can even damage the foundations of your home. Here's an overview of the common causes and tell-tale signs of a burst pipe:

Common Causes Of A Burst Pipe

Newer homes tend to have PVC pipes installed, but if you live in an old property, your pipes are likely metal. Metal pipes can corrode over time, and as rust deepens on your pipes they can weaken and eventually develop a hole or even snap in two. Additionally, if you live in a hard water area, mineral deposits can build up in your pipes. Some minerals can be corrosive and eventually damage the pipe wall, but mineral build-up can also lead to a leak if the deposits cause a blockage. Blockages can lead to excessive pressure building up elsewhere in the pipe, which can lead to ruptures, particularly along seams. Poorly installed pipes can also leave you at an increased risk of dealing with a leak, particularly if soldering was not done well or if joints are ill-fitting.

Tell-Tale Signs Of A Burst Pipe

Leaks on visible pipes are easy to spot, but concealed pipes can be leaking for a while before you notice. Knowing the tell-tale signs of a leaking pipe can help you identify the issue quickly and prevent serious damage to your property. Ceiling stains can be a common early sign of a leak, so check ceilings in enclosed or concealed areas, such as cupboards, regularly. Additionally, if you notice your water pressure needs to be topped up more regularly than usual, this could be a sign of a leak in the pipework. A musty smell attributed to dampness can also alert you to a leak in a concealed pipe. Constant dripping of water onto plasterboard or woodwork will leave the affected room smelling badly and cause humidity in that room to rise.

If you suspect you have a burst pipe, have a plumber come and investigate your concerns. They have the equipment and knowledge required to quickly identify the source of the problem and may be able to fix the leak right away. If they have to order a new part, it's best to leave your water turned off to prevent any additional damage to your property. 

For more info, contact a local plumber

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